There are parts of the constitution that protect us from the government (a good idea) and parts that protect one branch of the government from another (also a good idea). But an amendment to protect a branch of government from itself? Truly bizarre.
Congress writes the tax code, and Congress writes the budget. Congress can balance the budget whenever it likes. And if it doesn't, and if we care, we can toss them out -- last year was a case in point.
Clearly those in Congress who back a balanced budget amendment believe that they themselves will vote to reduce deficits with or without that amendment. So what's it for? To enforce a particular set of economic priorities even after citizens have voted against them. Looks more like another salvo in the "Culture Wars" to me. Too bad.
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